2012 Chalone Vineyard Estate Grenache, Chalone AVA
Winemaker Notes
Our 2012 Grenache shows an ample and rich body. Aromas of coffee, raisins and cassis lead into the
mouthwatering palate. Layers of dark fruits such as plum, blackberry and boysenberry dance on the
palate leading into a lingering finish.
Food Pairing Notes
Pair this with a homemade macaroni and cheese with shaved truffle for an indulgent surprise. Also great with Roasted Pheasant. Food and Wine Pairing from the Master Sommelier:
2012 CHALONE ESTATE GRENACHE
Paired with Braised Lamb Shanks, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes & Caramelized Leeks
With ample aromas of cranberry, layers of dark plum, cracked white pepper and subtle touches
of dried sage, this Grenache pairs wonderfully with Braised Lamb Shanks, Roasted Fingerling
Potatoes & Caramelized Leeks. Enjoy this wine’s generous flavors and texture as it resonates
with the deepness of the dish. Try this combination for yourself!
- Master Sommelier
Composition
100% Grenache
Wine Specs
Vintage
2012
Varietal
Grenache
Appellation
Chalone AVA
Acid
5.9 g/L
pH
3.35
Aging
12 Months in Hungarian Oak, 20% new
Alcohol %
12.5
Production Notes
The 2012 vintage was just about perfect in every way. The growing season began with a frost-free spring
and excellent conditions for flowering and berry set. The resulting normal-sized crop was welcomed after
the very small yields in 2011. Our Grenache vines ripened their clusters slowly and evenly through the
moderate temperatures of summer and early fall, which led to exceptionally ripe, fruit flavors with
outstanding balance. Culminating a steady, relaxed harvest season, we picked our Grenache grapes in
October, as each vine-section achieved full maturity.
Vineyard Notes
Chalone estate vineyard is planted between 1,650 and 1,800 feet of elevation, on top of the Gavilan
Mountains on the eastern side of the Salinas Valley. We hand harvested the Grenache from the MacWood
block, totaling 1.7 acres, which was planted in 1999 and grafted to St. George rootstock. Grenache is widely
grown in France’s Rhône Valley and in Spain, where it is vinified both as rosé and red wines. At Chalone,
we take advantage of both styles.
Production
Only 216 cases produced
